When a judge appoints a guardian ad litem in a custody case, many people representing themselves are unsure who this person is, whose side the GAL is on and what the first meeting will involve. Understanding the role ahead of time can make the process far less stressful and help you share your concerns clearly.
What a GAL Does
A guardian ad litem, or GAL, is appointed by the judge to represent the best interests of the child, not either party. Under Uniform Superior Court Rule 24.9, the GAL is an officer of the court who assists the court and the parties in reaching decisions on custody, visitation and other child-related issues. The GAL may request records about the child, visit each proposed home, talk with teachers, doctors and others who know the family, and take part in hearings, depositions and settlement talks.
Why the Report Matters
At the end of the investigation, the GAL usually writes a report summarizing the sources contacted and offering recommendations, with reasons, on custody and parenting time. The judge considers that report, and the GAL may testify at the final hearing; however, the rule also states that the GAL's recommendations "are not a substitute for the court's independent discretion and judgment." The report goes only to the parties and counsel, and sharing it with anyone else without the court's permission can lead to sanctions, including contempt.
What Catches People Off Guard
The GAL often notices how each person communicates, how organized the records are and whether the home is ready for a visit. A party may also be asked to sign a release so the GAL can review counseling or medical records, and the GAL's fees are usually divided between the parties as the judge orders. Coming to the first meeting calm, prepared and focused on the child sets the tone for everything that follows.
How a Session Can Help
Court Confidence offers one-on-one, one-hour sessions by Zoom for people representing themselves in Georgia family cases. In a session, we walk through what the GAL may ask for, organize your records and timeline so you can find any page in seconds, and practice explaining your concerns about the child clearly and calmly. Preparation cannot promise a particular result, but it can help you arrive at that meeting knowing what to expect.
Sessions are $250 per hour. To schedule, call or text 770-880-4781, email info@court-confidence.com or book online at https://calendly.com/elizabeth-schneider-esq/court-preparation-session.
Elizabeth Schneider, Esq., is a Georgia family law attorney, registered mediator and trained guardian ad litem, and the founder of Court Confidence in Suwanee. This article is general information, not legal advice for your situation.
